More than 20 suspected ISIS/ISWAP fighters have been killed in coordinated airstrike operations conducted by the Nigerian military with support from the United States Africa Command in Borno State.
The operation, confirmed on Monday by the Defence Headquarters, targeted terrorist hideouts in the Metele area of northern Borno, a region frequently affected by insurgent attacks.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military said the strikes were carried out following credible intelligence on the movement and gathering of terrorist fighters in the area.
According to the statement, multiple airstrikes hit identified terrorist positions, resulting in the elimination of over 20 ISIS/ISWAP fighters.
The Defence Headquarters said the offensive forms part of ongoing counterterrorism operations in the North-East aimed at dismantling insurgent networks and denying terrorists safe havens.
The military noted that the operation followed the recent neutralization of senior ISIS commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki as efforts continue to weaken terrorist activities in the region.
“The ongoing operations follow the neutralization of ISIS commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki and are part of sustained efforts to disrupt terrorist networks, remove them from the battlefield and deny terrorists any safe haven within Nigeria,” the statement said.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria also reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the country’s sovereignty and security, stressing that terrorists threatening citizens and national stability would continue to face decisive military action.
